Hardware Security Module Debugging Channel
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Hardware security modules face limitations in data transmission due to protocol constraints and resource limitations, making debugging and data access inefficient, especially when dealing with large files or real-time data transfer.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a communication channel initiated by the hardware security module to transmit data generated in response to commands, allowing for separate and efficient data and debugging information transfer over distinct physical links, thereby overcoming protocol limitations and maintaining a production-like execution environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data transmission follows traditional master/slave protocol, then security and control are maintained, but data transmission speed and efficiency deteriorate due to protocol limitations and throughput constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments data transmission into two distinct paths: (1) control commands and responses transmitted through the traditional secure master/slave protocol channel, and (2) bulk data transmission through a separate initiated communication channel. This segmentation allows each channel to be optimized for its specific purpose while maintaining overall system security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the HSM module itself initiates a communication channel to external entities for data transmission. This intermediary approach bypasses the limitations of the traditional master-initiated protocol while maintaining security through controlled access and authentication mechanisms.
2Productivity
If HSM module initiates communication channel for data transmission, then data transfer efficiency and real-time capability improve, but system complexity and control management worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by establishing authentication and authorization mechanisms before the HSM module initiates data transmission. The module pre-configures its capabilities and permissions, allowing it to autonomously initiate communication channels without requiring real-time master control for each transmission event.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the HSM module reports its data transmission status, buffer levels, and operational state to the master entity. This feedback loop enables the master to monitor and control the initiated channels indirectly, maintaining system manageability while allowing autonomous data transmission.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional debugging methods are used in HSM module, then development flexibility is maintained, but debugging capability and real-time monitoring deteriorate due to resource constraints and security limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary debugging channel that allows external debugging tools to communicate with the HSM module without compromising the production execution environment. This intermediary interface enables real-time monitoring and debugging while maintaining the security and resource constraints of the embedded system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds another dimension to the HSM architecture by introducing a dedicated debugging communication dimension separate from the production data transmission dimension. This allows debugging operations to occur in parallel with production operations, enabling real-time monitoring without interfering with normal system functionality.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The module i.e. microprocessor card (1000), has a program (1220) e.g. electrically EPROM, executed by a microprocessor (1300) i.e. CPU, to carry out a debugging operation, where the module generates debugging data in response to the receipt of one command e.g. access command, to an encrypted file stored in a one-time programmable memory (1200') of the module, and transmits the data to an external master entity (2000) over a communication channel initiated by the entity. The program includes one debugging instruction whose execution or non execution does not modify execution of the operation. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a method for processing a hardware security module (2) a mobile phone comprising a contactless communication interface and a hardware security module.